We believe in being approachable, so whoever you’re dealing with will be welcoming and quickly resolve any problems you may have.

Jayesh Patel,  Chairman

Jay’s role is to hold the directors to account, chair board meetings and steer the business in the right direction.

Jay is a non executive chairman of a variety of businesses with a global combined turnover in excess of 50 million pounds.

Gareth Smyth,  CEO

Gareth is one of the founding Directors and owners of the business. Having advised business owners on M&A activity and valuations since 2006, he has a wealth of experience in helping buyers and sellers of businesses across a range of sectors. Gareth qualified in 2011 with a Law Degree and subsequently a Masters Degree in International Corporate Finance, has completed the Goldman Sachs 10,000 small business program as well as the Certificate in Business Administration at Salford University. Gareth is responsible for performance and strategic growth as well as a lead advisor on large or complex deals. 

Away from work, Gareth enjoys cooking and keep fit, is a proud Bolton Wanderers supporter and loves gadgets and technology. 

Craig Graham,  Operations Director

Craig is one of the founding Directors and owners of the business. Having worked in management, and studying Law at University, Craig joined forces with Gareth keen to offer something new in Business Sales.

Away from work, Craig enjoys spending time with his friends and family. Craig enjoys watching a variety of sports including Rugby League, Football and Boxing. Craig is actively involved with various charitable causes including being Chairman of Primary School Trust and is a patron at the Bolton Lads and Girls Club Charity. 

Rukhsana Husain,  Senior Commercial Broker

Rukhsana is an experienced banking and finance professional with over 17 years in relationship management/wealth management dealing with UHNW/HNW as well as SME, commercial and corporations.

Simon Danvers,  Corporate Director

Simon joined the team in 2021

As a Corporate Director, Simon works closely with our Corporate Clients at the early stage of their instruction to us to ensure they have an effective marketing strategy and have the correct marketing price. Simon has over 20 years experience in business sales, mergers and acquisitions, with most of his time spent valuing and advising businesses.

Away form work Simon enjoys kick boxing along with keeping fit.  

Emma Flood,  Corporate Account Manager

Emma joined the team in 2019

As a Corporate Account Manager, Emma liaises with our Corporate clients at the early stages of their instructions to us and works closely with the Corporate team and our clients coordinating meetings. Emma has over 15 years experience in business sales.

Away from work Emma heads up a successful paranormal investigation group and is and animal fanatic. Emma loves spending time with her two beloved cats, George and Michael.

Ian Flood,  Head of Research

Ian joined the team in 2021

As a Head of Research, Ian matches our Corporate businesses to potential purchasers working to connect the perfect business with the right purchaser. Ian has worked in the role for the previous 5 years and thoroughly enjoys it.

Away from work Ian is a huge supporter of Bolton Wanderers and holds a season ticket and enjoys cooking, sampling craft ales and attending music concerts.

Jared Birkitt,  Mergers & Acquisitions Analyst

Jared joined the team in 2022.

As a Mergers & Acquisitions Analyst, Jared supports our sales team in producing company valuation reports for potential clients, as well as providing formal valuation opinions to existing clients.

Away from work Jared is a supporter of Manchester City and enjoys socialising with his friends and family.

Sandra Roberts,  Executive Assistant

Sandra joined the team in 2022.

Sandra works in our Corporate Department assisting the team and clients with a variety of tasks. Sandra takes a hands on approach and provides cover for colleagues whenever it is required and is always happy to help anyone out.

Prior to joining Hilton Smythe Sandra has spent time working as a book keeper, before training as a Criminal Lawyer; something she did for 20 years. More recently, Sandra has spent the previous 9 years working in luxury retail brands in Selfridges.

Away from work, Sandra enjoys good wine and food, spending time with her friends and family, shopping, going to the cinema and is fond of Cruising holidays.

Belinda Daniels,  Business Development Manager

Belinda joined the team in 2017, after having spent 35 years working for luxury brands in retail management.

Belinda’s role is a pivotal one across the business ensuring that we maintain positive and meaningful relationships with the people and organisations we work with. Belinda represents our business at events and takes the lead on our commitments to our Corporate, Social and Moral Responsibilities to the communities and sectors we work in.

Belinda recently lead the business to win a gold customer service award from Feefo and lead the process for us to be recognised as an outstanding employer from the Best Companies.

Away from work, Belinda enjoys walking, interior design and is a keen gardener.

Joshil Hirani,  Research Analyst

Joshil joined the team in 2017.

As a research analyst, Joshil matches our Corporate businesses to potential purchasers working to connect the perfect business with the right purchaser.

Away from work Joshil is a gaming pro and something of a FIFA legend.

Aidan Murphy,  Deal Executive

Aidan joined the team in 2012.

Aidan joined Hilton Smythe as a graduate.

Aidan is part of our mid market team dealing with a portfolio of businesses he manages on behalf of his clients. Aidan has 10 years experience in business sales and is passionate about getting deals done.

Away from work Aidan enjoys cycling, hiking and being outdoors, as well as spending time socialising.

Katie Holt,  Deal Executive

Katie joined the team in 2014.

Katie is part of our mid market team dealing with a portfolio of businesses he manages on behalf of his clients. Katie is passionate about getting deals done for her clients and assisting them with the complex elements of the sale process.

Prior to joining the team, Katie worked in hospitality

Away from work Katie enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Tommy Sweeney,  Marketing Assistant

Tommy joined the Hilton Smythe team in 2019

Tommy initially started as a Sales Negotiator. His passion for digital marketing quickly became apparent, leading him to transition into his current role as Marketing Assistant. In this position, Tommy plays a key role in developing our marketing strategies, particularly through the effective use of various social media platforms.

Outside of work, Tommy enjoys reading, staying active, spending time with his family, and proudly embracing his Irish heritage.

Elizabeth Cooke,  Copywriter

Elizabeth rejoined the team at the beginning of 2024.

She works alongside the corporate team to produce impactful Information Memorandums and marketing materials. Additionally, she oversees content production across the company’s website.

Prior to working at Hilton Smythe, Elizabeth worked as a data journalist, where she covered various industries, including technology, automotive, consumer goods, retail, and fashion supply chains. She graduated with a first class honours degree in Modern Languages (French) and Philosophy from the University of Oxford in 2022.

Outside of work, she runs half-marathons, walks her crazy whippet Louis, and reads widely.

Toby,  Head of Morale

Toby joined the team in 2021.

Toby is our Head of Morale and ensures that all of the team are in high spirits. He spends his time in the office looking for the occasional tummy rub and stroke.

Away from the office Toby enjoys long walks, eating lots of food and treats and is not fond of the rain!

Tony Owen,  Graphic Designer

Tony joined the team in 2016.

Tony is an integral part of our marketing team and responsible for our design elements including all printed and electronic marketing. Tony recently oversaw the re-branding and integration of our new designs and website. Tony has over 30 years experience in his field as both a designer and Director.

Away from work Tony enjoys travelling and food (although not cooking it).